Your guide to the heart of Litchfield County:
Discover local stories, hidden gems, and must-know events.

Fun Things to Do in Litchfield County this March! Events include art openings, St Patrick’s Day parties, workshops, band performances, and more.

March 1

Write in Tune w/Seasons, WOODBURY
Join Local author Nancy McMillan, (March Farm: Season by Season on a Connecticut Family Farm), for a 90-minute writing workshop that explores winter themes through writing. For inspiration, you will use nature, art, and poetry.

CT Grateful Dead All Stars Acoustic Trio, LITCHFIELD
Join the Litchfield Community Center for a night full of Acoustic Grateful Dead Hits! Doors Open at 6:30 pm / Show starts at 7:00 pm. Feel free to BOYB and Snacks!

Home & Earth Opening, WOODBURY
Join the Home & Earth’s Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on March 1 from 4 pm – 6 pm. Reception and light refreshments to follow.

March 2

The Amazing Winter Crow with Craig Gibson, LITCHFIELD
Join Craig Gibson and learn about the massive roost he and his colleagues have been monitoring in Lawrence, Massachusetts and how you can become involved counting roosts right here in our neck of the woods! 2:00 pm, A. B. Ceder Room.

Alibaba Awrang Art Show, TORRINGTON
Master calligrapher Alibaba Awrang will show his work at Five Points Annex in Torrington, March 2-10. The public is invited to an Opening Reception on Saturday, March 2 from 4 pm – 6 pm.

Winter Tree Whispering Walk, KENT
The Kent Land Trust will hold a Winter Tree Whispering Walk March 2 at 10 am. The 1.5-mile round-trip loop will traverse easy-to-moderate terrain to observe the trees within Skiff Mountain South Preserve. Registration is required.

March 3

Orb Melon Duo, WINSTED
Bring your friends and family and get your blues with Orb Melon Duo at the Little Red Barn Brewers taproom!

Art Show, NORFOLK HISTORIC DISTRICT
Come see what happens when two talented and creative women of Norfolk, Stace Dillard & Hilary VanWright, fill the gaps between their full-time graphic design jobs (and roles as mothers) with their love of the finer arts.

Pancake Breakfast, WOODBURY
Bring the family and join the Flanders’ Annual Pancake Breakfast! The menu will feature all-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage. All are served with Flanders’ very own maple syrup, butter, and beverage of choice (coffee, tea, and/or orange juice). All proceeds from the breakfast will benefit Flanders’ education programs.

March 6

Day Trip: NE Air Museum, LITCHFIELD
Go on a day trip to the New England Air Museum! Have lunch at Skooter’s Restaurant and experience a docent led tour. Pre-registration & pre-payment required.

Love, Hope vs. Hate, LITCHFIELD
Listen to Endre (Andy) Sarkany, Holocaust survivor, talk  about his personal experiences during the Holocaust, living under the brutality of the Soviet regime in Hungary, and finding a home in the United States.

March 7

Women’s Torah & Tea, LITCHFIELD
Join the Chabad Lubavitch of NorthWest CT for a weekly dose of inspiration with Rebbetzin Mina as she delves into the weekly Torah portion. Prepared to gain new insights and connect with a community of like-minded individuals.

March 8

The Mark Fusco Band at The Sunset Grille, WATERTOWN
Join The Sunset Grille in Watertown on at 6 pm for a performance by The Mark Fusco Band! Enjoy soft ballads, funky dance tunes, driving rock songs, and everything in-between!

March 9

Stuff The Truck, NEW MILFORD
Mark your calendars for the STUFF THE TRUCK event happening from 9 am – 3 pm, at The Home Depot located in New Milford. This event is for a good cause as ALL from ReStore go directly toward the Housatonic Habitat for Humanity’s mission of building affordable housing in our community.

Plymouth Maple Festival, PLYMOUTH
Celebrate the New England tradition of maple sugaring on the historic Plymouth Green. Watch sap boiling over an open fire, sample different grades of syrup-see which you like best, listen to the fiddling of Down Home Frolic, and so much more!

Litchfield Hills Farm-Fresh Market, LITCHFIELD
The Litchfield Farmers Market is one of the few year-round markets in the Connecticut. The weekly Saturday market offers fresh seasonal produce, fruit, berries, herbs, sustainably sourced fish; artisanal cheeses, breads and baked goods, local honey, maple syrup and gifts – all raised, grown or crafted by 15+ local vendors.

Spring Card Making Workshop, NEW MILFORD
Are you on the hunt for a workshop that’s a mix of fun and creativity, but won’t take ages to finish? Join The Village Center for the Arts for an evening of creativity and fun! This event is perfect for anyone who wants to make their own unique, handmade Spring themed cards but doesn’t know where to start. Make 4-5 cards for $20.

March 10

WBCMF Chamber Concert, WOODBURY
Join The Woodbury Bethlehem Community Music Foundation’s for their remaining two concerts in their Chamber Concert Series are March 10 and April 28 featuring international performers Orion Weiss, pianist and Ani Aznavoorian, and cellist Andrew Armstrong.

Kent Singers’ Spring Concert, KENT
The Kent Singers’ Spring Concert presents Britten’s Rejoice in the Lamb, Randall Thompson’s Frostiana, and two pieces by the young American composer, Jake Runestad: The Hope of Loving and The Peace of Wild Things.

Dan Ringrose at Housatonic River Brewery,
Visit the Housatonic River Brewing for great rock and roll with an Irish twist by singer, Dan Ringrose.

March 12

St. Patrick’s Day BASH, MORRIS
Join the Morris Senior Center to celebrate Ireland’s patron Saint by eating some delicious corned beef along with all the trimmings. Enjoy a delicious catered lunch, an amazing dessert, live  entertainment, raffles and prizes, and great company!

March 13

Marc Chagall, LITCHFIELD
Join the Litchfield Community Center by welcoming Marc Chagall as he discusses Joy, Color & a Celebration of Jewish Culture. This program provides an introduction to Chagall’s personal and professional resilience, his work, and his favorite subjects.

Live, Learn, and Lunch, LITCHFIELD
How did the women of CT work for – or against – the right to vote? In this program, you’ll learn about suffragists like Katharine Houghton Hepburn, Mary Townsend Seymour, and Isabella Beecher Hooker, as well as some CT women who fought tooth-and-nail AGAINST women getting the vote. Presented by Natalie Belanger, CT Museum of Culture and History. March 13, 12 pm – 1:30 pm.

March 14

Happy Hour Hiking Club, LITCHFIELD
Start March off by getting your body moving more! Skip that Happy Hour cocktail and calorie-laden appetizer, and take a walk with Gerri! It may be cold. It may be dark. It may even be snowing…but you can do it!

Evening Glow Music Series, LITCHFIELD
All are welcome to join the Litchfield Community Center for relaxing and reflective music to close the day. Rebecca Patterson, Violin Cello and Bill Braun, Pianist will perform and are followed by a reception with refreshments.

March 15

Photography Walk, LITCHFIELD

Join professional photographer and instructor, Thad Kubis, right at the White Memorial for a photography walk. Meet at the entrance to boardwalk area at 2:45 pm then spend the next hour and 45 min. walking and enjoying the art of photography – All formats and media are welcomed.

The McKrells LIVE, LITCHFIELD
Get your Irish on and celebrate St. Patty’s Day with The McKrells! March 15, 7 pm – 10 pm. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Walk in tickets also available at the door. Pop-up Mobile Pub will be offering all your favorite beverages for purchase.

Cry It Out, WOODBURY
From March 15 – 24, Community Theatre at Woodbury will continue its 10th Anniversary Season with a fully staged production of Cry It Out by Molly Smith Metzler. All performances will take place at Woodbury’s Historic Old Town Hall.

Shamrock Shindig, KENT
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the Kent Chamber of Commerce during a Shamrock Shindig on Friday, March 15. This traditional Irish holiday honoring the 5th-century bishop has become a cultural celebration across the globe, and Kent is no exception. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older.

March 16

The Easter Bunny Express, THOMASTON
There is no better way to celebrate the coming of spring than on the Naugatuck Railroad’s Easter Bunny Express! Climb aboard for a 1 hour and 20 minute train ride through the beautiful Litchfield Hills as they reawaken after a cold, long winter’s nap.

The Radium Girls, WINSTED
Learn about the Radium Girls—the American women of the 1920s who worked as radium dial painters for the watch industry. Their heroic story became the subject of the popular film named after them and The New York Times best-seller Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women by Kate Moore.

Haystack Book Talk, NORFOLK
Join Norfolk’s Robert Dance in conversation with Hugh Eakin, author of Picasso’s War: How Modern Art Came to America on March 16 at 4:30 pm. Eakins describes how two men—first John Quinn, then Alfred Barr, Jr. changed the art world forever. Eakin’s will sign copies after the event.

March 17

The Mighty Ploughboys, NEW MILFORD
Join the Housatonic River Brewery for some classic rock and traditional Irish music by the Mighty Ploughboys. They will make you want to be Irish, especially on St Paddy’s day! A band that creates an eclectic style that could be classified in its own genre.

Chamber Music Concert, ROXBURY
Join the Long River Concerts for the upcoming concert on Sunday, March 17, 3 pm. The program will open with two early works by Franz Schubert, written when he was 18 and 19 years old. Guest violinist Ellen dePasquale and pianist Alissa Leiser will perform his 1816 Sonata followed by a set of Variations for solo piano from 1815. Cellist Alberto Parrini will join for the exquisite Trio Number 2 in C Major by Johannes Brahms.

March 21

A Shamanic Journey, MORRIS
Morris author and researcher Jan Henson Dow returns to the Morris Public Library with her new presentation “Taking a Shamanic Journey,”

March 22

Birding Backpack, HARWINTON
Plan a day of outdoor learning and fun with our brand new Birding Backpack, generously donated by the Litchfield Hills Audubon Society! This wonderful resource has everything you need to get started bird watching.

DUELING PIANOS by- Shake, Rattle and Roll, WATERTOWN
Join the Sunset Grille for a night of musical mayhem. Shake, Rattle and Roll will be bringing their high-energy dueling pianos show to 834 Northfield Rd. Get ready to sing along, dance, and laugh as these talented pianists go head-to-head, playing all your favorite songs.

Candlelight Slow Yoga, WOODBURY
Join Sarah E. Carey for Candlelight Slow Yoga. A monthly event in the heart of Woodbury for deep restoration. You’ll be invited to relax and de-stress through gentle movements and meditation techniques. Yoga class will be followed by a sharing circle.

March 23

ROMÉO ET JULIETTE, TORRINGTON
Join the Warner Theatre and watch the production of Romeo et Juliette.

Back to the 80s, MORRIS
Dance your Winter Blues away with an iconic 80s Dance Party! Featuring live 80s music with The Future Heavies at the award winning South Farms! Join them for an incredible evening of live music, neon, hairspray and dancing at South Farms in Morris. Doors open at 7:00 pm; show starts at 7:30 pm. Limited seating available – don’t miss out!

VisionQuest: Empowerment Through Creation,
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment at The Village Center of the Arts transformative vision board workshop featuring empowerment coach Amy Jacques of Aspire, LLC. Ages 13- adults of all ages.

Birding Backpack, HARWINTON
Plan a day of outdoor learning and fun with our brand new Birding Backpack, generously donated by the Litchfield Hills Audubon Society! This wonderful resource has everything you need to get started bird watching.

Jill Andrews in Concert, NEW HARTFORD
Join the Beekley Community Library for a concert by Jill Andrews.  Pay in advance at the library, at the door, or online.

March 24

Brian Dolzani Band at Woodbury Brewing, WOODBURY
Join Brian Dolzani Band for a Sunday night at Woodbury Brewing Co. Brian’s current album is ‘We Are Magic’, which is the 10th album in his catalog that he has released over a twenty-year career.

March 25

Pollinator Pathway, HARWINTON
Harwinton has joined the Pollinator Pathway! Learn about the program and how you can participate.

March 28

Artistry & Enterprise: Building a Sustainable Creative Business w/Chelsea Gaia, VIRTUAL
In this workshop, Chelsea Gaia offers a comprehensive blueprint for artists eager to explore the business logistics of expanding one’s creative practice, while addressing the common complicated emotions (and misconceptions) that surround thinking of one’s practice as a “business.”

Champagne Pairing Dinner with Perrier-Jouët, WASHINGTON
Journey to the countryside for an exquisite dinner and champagne tasting experience at the Mayflower Inn & Spa, in partnership with the historic champagne house, Maison Perrier-Jouët.

March 29

Egg Hunt with Baby Goats, WASHINGTON DEPOT
Join Got Your Goat Farm for an egg hunt and Easter party. The goats will hunt with you and you can find candy and treats for you as well as for them! Special goat treat eggs will be hidden. You will be able to walk their fields with their herd of goats and explore their working farm.

Adventure Days, WOODBURY
Are you looking for a great opportunity for your children, grades kindergarten through 5th, to get some outdoor exercise, learn more about the animals that make up their world and bring their science books to life? The Flanders Nature Center and Land Trust will care for them, entertain them and educate them while giving them a memorable day! March 29, multiple time slots.

March 30

Easter Event at Rowley Park, WINSTED
Enjoy the Easter Bunny and Annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Rowley Park in Winsted. Arts and crafts inside from 11 am – 12:30 pm. Please bring your own basket to collect the eggs, find the GOLD EGG and win a prize basket.

March 31

THE ELEPHANT’S TRUNK, NEW MILFORD
The Elephant’s Trunk vendors from all over New England and from afar have been stockpiling treasures all winter long. So, if you’re seeking that rare and unusual find…it’s quite possible the Trunk is your destination. This is the best way to get some fresh air and remedy your major TRUNK withdrawal!

Pursuing Dreams on His Terms

By Michelle Madden

Photo by Mike Paniccia 

 “If someone says “no” to me, I just want to do it even more. It didn’t work so well for me when I was young, but since my 20s it’s been a very effective strategy.” Torsten Gross has spent his lifetime defeating the no’s, and in doing so has become an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, founder of a non-profit, race car driver, and now star of a soon to be released television series.  Oh and he happens to be a quadriplegic. 

“We all have our version of a “wheelchair,” some of ours are just more visible than others. The moment we can turn what we think holds us back into our strength, we are truly free to achieve anything,” says Gross. Since he was 15 years old and broke his neck into 36 pieces in a diving accident, he has been shattering misperceptions of what people in a chair can do. He holds tight to the belief that we all achieve in our own way. It’s the results we need to focus on, not doing things the way others think you should do them.

Like race car driving. “My car moves no differently from any other car, I just use hand-controls rather than foot-controls.” Gross took a spin in a hand-controlled car at Lime Rock Park three years ago and was hooked, “I’ve always had a need for speed and thrills,“ he confesses,“ but this was life changing.”

For the past year, a camera crew has been following Gross, documenting his pursuit of speed as he travels the country, racing at the Virginia International Raceway, the Formula-1 track in Austin, Texas, and the Daytona International Speedway—not in a division for wheelchair athletes, but against the most elite race car drivers in the world. (Joey Logano, a two time NASCAR winner, appears with Gross in a Pennzoil commercial.) Gross is quick to note that the goal for the documentary is not just to demonstrate what a disabled individual is capable of, but to show all of us what is possible when we release the internal chains that bind us.

Two years ago, Gross founded the non-profit, “Just Hands” to give disabled individuals the opportunity to feel the sense of freedom that he experiences on the race track. Though based at Lime Rock, its mission is to normalize hand-controlled driving, by facilitating the outfitting of hand-controlled cars at all race tracks across the country. The four-year waitlist for a reservation seems proof-of-concept enough.

 A benefit screening of the show takes place, Saturday, March 30 at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville and includes a pre-screening chance to drive a hand-controlled Porsche or BMW around the track! All are welcome! Wheelchair not necessary… 

Tickets to the screening are available at justhands.org.

A slave’s saga continues to emerge in Bethlehem

By Linda Tuccio-Koonz

The Bellamy-Ferriday House in Bethlehem has been open to the public for decades. But that doesn’t mean researchers know every secret of this 1700s home, not to mention its original owner–a powerful pastor and slave owner.

Today’s visitors are learning disturbing details about the Rev. Joseph Bellamy. “History is not always pretty, and the story is still unfolding,” says Peg Shimer, site administrator.

“When we opened the Bellamy-Ferriday House and Garden back in 1992, an interpretation was done regarding the historical significance of the property as well as Reverend Bellamy and his life here,” she says. “At that time, it was known he had been an enslaver, but our tours did not focus on this.”

In not talking about it, it kind of “got lost” and other stories received more attention. “In trying to tell a more inclusive story of the property these seemingly ‘lost’ stories are getting new light shed on them.”

In this case the light is illuminating an exchange between Bellamy and the Rev. Samuel Hopkins, a friend. Hopkins was a Waterbury native who opposed slavery and urged Bellamy to free his slave.

“What had happened was Bellamy was telling Hopkins how well he treated his enslaved man and that if given the opportunity he would choose to stay with Bellamy rather than be free.” Hopkins, perhaps knowing his friend all too well, challenged him to ask the man whether he’d prefer to stay with Bellamy or go free. 

“Bellamy’s man, after explaining that Reverend Bellamy was a good master and treated him well, did of course choose freedom,” Shimer says. 

“The unfortunate ending to this story is that Bellamy chose not to free his man” (even though he’d said he would).

What happened next is unclear. Shimer says it’s believed the man was conscripted into the Continental Army, fought in the Revolutionary War and earned his freedom, but that Bellamy then sued the Continental Congress “for his lost possession” during the war.

“We leave out this last chapter because we can’t find confirmation,” she says. “We are always looking.”

Many people think slavery was just down south on plantations, but it was everywhere, she adds. Slavery in Connecticut didn’t end until 1848–13 years before the Civil War.

“Connecticut also prospered from the enslavement of those in the South, for it was our goods that were shipped south to supply many of the plantations. 

“So even after it ended, we profited from others’ enslavement, a point I think we should reflect on today–where were your shoes made?

“While the enslavement of others has long ended here, sadly there are places in this world where that is not true.”

Slavery is “a horrible chapter in our history,” she adds, but just as with any chapter of our history, it needs to be told so we learn and understand the journey of who we are as a country.

“I believe the story of Bellamy’s man is just one of many; our researchers have some pieces but not the whole picture. I’m confident that in the coming years we’ll have a much more in-depth story at the Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden.”

Feel the love at some of these Litchfield County February events including new films, Valentine’s Day dinners, workshops, sporting events, and more!

February 1

Candlewood at Bank Street Theater, NEW MILFORD
Inspired by historical events, the film, “Candlewood” follows a blended family that moves from New York City to a small, isolated town in Connecticut. Once there, a local urban legend wreaks havoc, fracturing their family dynamic and causing them to go insane. Starring Carolyn McCormick, Joel Bryant and Lisann Valentin. Not Rated.

Marc Berger, TORRINGTON
Marc’s life has been about pursuing twin passions: creating, recording and performing his original songs and exploring the American West. At this special concert, Marc will perform songs from the album and share some unforgettable stories about his experiences as an easterner in the mountain and desert West.
6 pm to 8 pm at the Torrington Library.

February 2

Jumpfest 2024, SALISBURY
If you have never seen ski jumping live, you have never truly witnessed the sport. Standing amidst the ringing cowbells, with crowds cheering on their favorites, hearing skis slapping against the landing hill as these brave jumpers soar up to 200 feet through the air at speeds up to 50 miles an hour, is something you must experience. February 2-4.

February 3

2024 Winter Concert Series, TORRINGTON
Torrington Parks and Recreation, partnering with On Deck Sound Studio, is happy to announce the 2024 Winter Concert Series! With free admission and great music, you are sure to have a fun night!
Held in Coe Memorial Park Civic Center from 6:30 pm to 8 pm.

Winterfest At Burr Pond State Park!, TORRINGTON
Grab your winter gear, bundle up and join the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s (DEEP) No Child Left Inside® 17h Annual Winter Festival at Burr Pond State Park, 384 Burr Mountain Road, Torrington. The festival is 10 am to 3 pm. Saturday, February 3 with a rain date of February 4.

Optime pastor, LAKEVILLE
The Renaissance is considered the Golden Era of vocal music. This program features sacred four- to seven-voice works by these composers. A central subject in the program is the plea for peace, featured in several compositions: Taverner’s “In Pace” (In Peace shall I sleep and rest), and “Da Pacem Domine” (Give peace in our time), a motet by Lasso and also the main chant melody in Isaac’s “Optime pastor” (Shepherd, Maker of Good Virtue) motet. Saturday, February 3, at 3 pm at Trinity Church, Lakeville.

Knitting on the Farm, CORNWALL
Learning a new craft is a great way to start the new year and pass the long winter hours. Clover Hill Farm will be holding their very first knitting class on our farm in Cornwall on February 3 and 10 from 10 am to 12 pm. Meet the animals and discover how to crochet a lovely ear warmer with the yarn they grew. This course is designed for people who have never knitted before or who might need to review their foundational knowledge. Casting on, knitting, purling, casting off, and blocking will all be covered. The cost of the course, including all supplies (Clover Hill yarn, needles, and pattern), is $100 per student.

MaryKate Maher | Night Bloom, LITCHFIELD
MaryKate’s “Night Bloom” brings together a new group of collages that are inspired by liminal late-night spaces, waiting for rare flower blooms, and forgotten ephemera. Still lives inspired by wild or wilted plants and dramatic, over-stylized displays are used to create these moody atmospheres. February 3 from 3 pm-5 pm.

Frank Habbas Art Show, TORRINGTON
Artist and longtime Washington resident, Frank Habbas is presenting his first solo exhibition at the Five Points Annex Gallery in Torrington from February 3rd to February 11. EVOLVING: A COLLECTION OF PAINTINGS BY FRANK HABBAS, exhibition will showcase the range of styles with which the artist has experimented over time. Spanning his early, realistic works reflective of his background as a comp illustrator to more recent paintings that embody a dreamlike quality, the exhibition represents the evolution of the artist’s subjects, style, and viewpoint.

February 4

3D Valentine’s Workshop, NEW MILFORD
With the advancement in technology, 3D printing has become a fascinating and lucrative field to explore.
The Village Center for the Arts workshop provides an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in mastering the art of 3D printing. This time, they have come up with an exciting theme of creating Valentine’s gifts. Imagine designing and printing out a unique and personalized gift for your loved one! Sunday, February 4, 11 pm-12:30 pm.

February 5

Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking, VIRTUAL EVENT
Do you struggle with the fear of public speaking? Zenspeak has a solution for you. Join them in conquering public speaking anxiety through gradual exposure, within a supportive and nurturing environment. Take a complimentary trial session to determine if this program is the right fit for you! February 5.

February 9

The Comedy Lounge at SALT2.0, TORRINGTON
The Comedy Lounge is bringing the funniest comedians in the Northeast to Main St. in Torrington for a night full of laughs! Their shows regularly feature comics who’ve been on Comedy Central, HBO, and the Comedy Cellar! Doors Open at 7 pm. Show Starts at 7:30 pm.

Paige Novick Jewelry Trunk Show & Crystal Healing, WASHINGTON
Paige Novick will join the Mayflower Inn & Spa from Friday, February 9 to Sunday, February 11 for a weekend-long shopping experience featuring her latest collections in the countryside. Stop by any time between 11:30 am and 5 pm to browse the specially curated pieces of Paige Novick’s eponymous jewelry line.

Babies vs Climate Change, CORNWALL
On February 9 at 6:30 pm, The Cornwall Library will present a stimulating evening with Meghan Elizabeth Kallman and Josephine Ferorelli, authors of The Conceivable Future: Planning Families and Taking Action in the Age of Climate Change. They will discuss the ways in which the climate crisis is a reproduction crisis, and what you can do about it.

February 10

Cut it Out! The Local History and Practice of Ice Harvesting, BANTAM
Ice harvested from Bantam Lake was used for refrigeration throughout the year. Begin in the Museum with a visit to the Ice House display, then head outdoors for a walk down the Lake Trail to visit the old ice house ruins. The program culminates with their own “Cut Ups” Jeff Greenwood, James Fischer, and Gerri Griswold demonstrating how ice was cut and moved using the same tools and methods. 11 am – 2 pm. A. B. Ceder Room, Members: $5.00 Non-Members: $10.00.
Pre-registration and pre-payment are required.

Sweetheart Run/Walk, LITCHFIELD
22nd Annual Bob and Peg Andrulis Memorial Sweetheart 5 mile Run/3 mile Walk!  11 am – 2 pm.  Adult: $30.00 – Kids 10 & under: $10.00 – 80+: FREE! Pre-registration is strongly encouraged to get t-shirt and avoid day of line. PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY CENTER!

Maple Tapping Day, WOODBURY
Maple Tapping Day is planned for Saturday, February 10th! You can join the Flanders Nature Center at 9:30 am or 11 am. Sign up on the Flanders website to help them tap their trees and be a part of the 2024 sugar season.

February 11

Football Watch Party, WASHINGTON DEPOT
Join The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens in Washington Depot on Sunday, February 11 at the park for a football watch party starting at 6 pm. There’ll be fun, football fare for purchase from the Meraki food truck and friendship as you cheer on your favorite team! BYO blankets, chairs, beverages and food.

St. Andrew’s Presents Poulenc’s “Babar”, KENT
Music in the Nave presents a classical children’s concert featuring Poulenc’s The Story of Babar the Little Elephant, narrated by esteemed actress Margo Martindale, accompanied by pianist Margarita Nuller, accompanied by pianist Margarita Nuller. The program begins with cellist Eliot Bailen playing his Ferdinand the Bull with daughter Julia Bailen narrating, followed by Mr. Bailen and Ms. Nuller performing Saint- Saens’s “The Swan” from Carnival of the Animals. 3 pm at St. Andrew’s Parish. 

Valentine’s Sip ‘n Shop, WINSTED
The Makers Shoppes of Whiting Mills are excited to announce their eagerly awaited “Second Annual Valentine’s Sip ‘n Shop,” to be held on Sunday, February 11, from 11 am – 4 pm. Visitors are invited to explore a diverse group of artisan shops throughout the historic Mill building while indulging in a delightful array of complimentary refreshments. Adding to the charming atmosphere, the upstairs lounge will feature Valentine décor and live music.

February 14

True Crime At the Museum, LITCHFIELD
Join the Litchfield Community Center for a light lunch at noon followed with “True Crime At the Museum”, a presentation by Natalie Belanger, Adult Programs Manager at the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History. 12 pm – 1:15 pm. FREE! Pre-Registration Required.

February 16

Evening Glow Music Series, LITCHFIELD
EVENING GLOW MUSIC SERIES ~ Join the Litchfield Community Center for relaxing and reflective music by Dale Osterman and Vanessa Hammond to close your day. 3:30-4:30 pm. Wine & Cheese reception to follow. Pre-registration is required.

Green Eyed Lady, NEW MILFORD
Join Housatonic River Brewing at 7 pm for a performance by Green Eyed Lady. An award-winning, heart-warming power rock band that specializes in adapting: soft crooning during a dinner seating or cocktail hour, to seriously rocking the joint through the late night dance hours.  There will be a $5 cover charge at door.

February 17

Hotchkiss Philharmonic, LAKEVILLE
Don’t miss the Hotchkiss Philharmonic concert, Celebrating American Music and Musicians, on Saturday, February 17, 7:30 pm in the Katherine M. Elfers Hall of the Esther Eastman Music Center at The Hotchkiss School.

Winter Wine Dinner with Whitecliff, MILLBROOK
Join The Millbrook Inn for a wonderful evening at the Winter Wine Dinner with the winemakers and owners, as they talk about some of their favorites, plus pour some surprises that are in very limited edition! It’s a great opportunity to talk to the winemakers directly and make new wine-loving friends!

February 18

Dave King at Hopkins Vineyard, WARREN
Please join the Hopkins Vineyard for an afternoon of music and wine in the loft at Hopkins Vineyard overlooking beautiful Lake Waramaug from 1-4 pm. It’s a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

February 23

A Raisin in the Sun, LAKEVILLE

The Hotchkiss School is pleased to present Hotchkiss Dramatic Association’s production of A Raisin in the Sun.

Happy Hour Piano with Jeff Boratko, WINSTED
Multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and frontman of Streetlight Shakers, Jeff Boratko will light up the evening with a blend of vocals and keys.

9th Annual Wine & Beer Tasting and Silent Auction, LITCHFIELD
Join the Litchfield Montessori School’s 9th Annual Wine & Beer Tasting and Silent Auction! This event will be an evening filled with friends and neighbors tasting local wine and spirits, Passed Hors-d’Oeuvres, door prizes, silent auction, and music.

February 24

AMP Talks: Edwin Raymond, WINSTED
The American Mural Project (AMP) will host critically acclaimed author Edwin Raymond, former NYPD lieutenant for a discussion and book signing.

February 25

Vertical Challenge at Ski Sundown CT, NEW HARTFORD
The Vertical Challenge is a series of free, casual ski and snowboard races held at the best ski resorts throughout the Northeast each winter season…and now they are headed to Ski Sundown.

Polar Bear Run, WARREN
Join for an epic 7.8 mile loop of picturesque Lake Waramaug – this annual winter tradition attracts hundreds of area runners.

February 28

First Church Events back, CT Foodshare Distribution, TORRINGTON
CT Foodshare will deliver various fresh products for free distribution to limited-income households. Please bring bags to carry your items. Open from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Youth Ensemble Concert, NEW MILFORD
The ASAP! Youth Ensemble Concert is the culmination of the Youth Ensemble program which brings together a community of young musicians from northwest CT to refine their orchestral abilities, engage in creative composition, and explore innovative methods of collective music-making.

February 29

Eleanor Roosevelt, LITCHFIELD
Sheryl Faye Presents “Historical Women”: Making the Past the Present Eleanor Roosevelt, The First lady of the World.

An Evening with Gabby Bernstein, TORRINGTON
The McCall Behavioral Health Network presents An Evening with Gabby Bernstein: Accessing Inner Peace & Resilience.

Our readers voted for their favorite things about Litchfield County in a wide variety of categories for our annual 2024 Reader’s Choice Contest in this Best of Litchfield County issue. The results feature people and businesses in various industries—including food, health and wellness, apparel and accessories, home and design, education, spa and beauty, and many more! We are excited to share with you the top three choices in each category—not to mention, some of  the local businesses that make Litchfield County the amazing place it is.

Click HERE to view the 2024 results.

Modern-day cobbler Lauren Brinkers crafts and paints exquisite handmade shoes at her studio in Cornwall.

By Cynthia Hochswender

Photos by Sari Goodfriend

Shoes keep us grounded. They’re not the cherry on the cake, they’re the plate that keeps it all together, the surface that no one notices until the cake is gone. Unless they’re handmade works of art, such as the ones made by Lauren Brinkers in her small studio in Cornwall where she’s been working since 2021, on property she bought with her partner, photographer Stephan Sagmiller.

In the way that other youngsters might be interested in making doll clothing, Brinkers had a fascination with footwear from an early age. In her 20s she began actually making them, “without really knowing what I was doing,” she recalls. She took a class in Manhattan, not expecting much; however, it turned out to be inspirational and instructional. Her teacher encouraged her to further her studies in London or Milan, the two cities where handcrafting shoes was still an art and a business. Brinkers chose Cordwainers at the London College of Fashion and continued on to internships in the traditional shoemaking neighborhood of Hackney.

She returned to the U.S. with a deeper knowledge of techniques, materials, and machinery, including the vintage Pfaff sewing machine she purchased in England.

“Pfaffs are very hard to find in this country,” she says. “But they’re the best, and I had to have one. That was non-negotiable.”

While Brinkers is ethereal, esthetic, and imaginative, she is also definite, sensible, and tough. She worked for years as a pediatric nurse in Manhattan, then moved to a research nursing position within the same hospital. However, when COVID began, she was back on the nursing floor and was sent to locations all over the city.

“That was a scary time to be a nurse,” she recalls.

Already, Brinkers and Sagmiller had been considering a move from the city but they weren’t sure where. Seattle? California? Eventually they found their way to Cornwall.

“It was the middle of the COVID housing frenzy, and we thought it would be impossible.”

Then they came upon the old CBG art gallery in Cornwall, fell in love with it, created their two studios, and found inspiration in decidedly different surroundings.

“Being here instead of the city has expanded everything,” she says emphatically. “I find inspiration in everything I see. And the weight of the city is off of me. Now I can just walk out to the studio and create, instead of riding a Citi Bike while carrying five pounds of leather.”

Brinkers’ shoes embody the two different sides of her craftsmanship: They’re hand-dyed and hand-painted, and made of buttery soft leather. Often there is a bow. But these shoes are also sturdy, comfortable, and meant to be worn. The delicate uppers are grounded by handmade stacked-leather Cuban heels. 

“My biggest inspirations,” Brinkers says, “are Medieval slippers and American cowboy boots.”

Brinkers shoes are sold at the Field + Supply fairs in Kingston, Three Turtle Doves in Woodstock, 100 Main in Falls Village, and on her website. She introduces several new collections each year, but will also take custom orders. —laurenbrinkers.com

Eleish Van Breems Home, the eponymous Scandinavian home furnishings and antiques brand is continuing to spread their mantra of “bring good design to everyone” with the launch of their new shop in New Preston. Owners and best friends, Rhonda Eleish and Edie Van Breems, the champions of Scandinavian design, transport you to a Nordic retreat that celebrates Scandinavian style and craftsmanship whilst embracing the sensibility and ease of living in the country.  

No strangers to Litchfield County, Edie and Rhonda started their company twenty seven years ago in an 18th century house and barn down the road in Woodbury, though later relocated to Fairfield County for family reasons. When the opportunity arose to open in the previous Dawn Hill Antiques on 11 Main Street, Rhonda and Edie leapt at the chance. The historical space had originally been New Preston’s post office and market in the 1900s and is scenically located across from a roaring waterfall.  “A dream come true and really coming full circle” is how Rhonda Eleish describes their return to the area.

As in their retail shops in Westport and Nantucket, shoppers find fine Gustavian and Rococo antiques and Scandinavian mid-century furniture masters mixed in with sustainable and sophisticated contemporary furniture by Verellen, Cane-line and Thayer Coggin as well as  lighting by Louis Poulsen and St Louis. Tableware, linens, gifts, and home goods by various Swedish and Finnish heritage brands including Skutuna, Marimekko and Gustavsberg, and Hein Studio are also available.—www.evbantiques.com

By Paul Marcarelli

Photographer Ryan Lavine

“A pond with its busy inhabitants

distills a sense of calm and peace

amidst the hurry and bustle

of life outside…” Dillon Ripley, A Paddling of Ducks

Every actor’s resume ends with a list of special skills. Like driving stick shift or juggling knives. I now can add deworming waterfowl to mine after a recent morning spent at Litchfield’s Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy. My goal was to get to know Logan Connor, Ripley’s 26-year-old director of aviculture. But when we’d first met there two weeks earlier, I got the impression he was uncomfortable with the whole magazine thing. We stood quietly watching a raptor demonstration for visitors, in which a Harris’s hawk named Rip launched after a small child running with a morsel of meat behind her on a lure. “Most raptors are loners,” Logan told me. “But Harris’s hawks prefer working together, making them inclined to cooperate with human handlers.” 

“So,” I asked Logan, “Are you more of a typical raptor or Harris’s hawk?” 

Unlike Rip, Logan wasn’t biting. Clearly, I’d need a different approach. “I grew up on a farm,” I said. “How about I come back and you put me to work?” So it was, I found myself helping administer RWC’s twice annual deworming protocol. Logan, who started at the conservancy as a teen, is a big guy by any standard, and proved every bit as gentle, humble, and unassuming. Reluctant to talk about himself, he’s happy to share his encyclopedic knowledge of RWC’s dozens of species of geese, ducks, cranes, swans, wading birds, and pheasants from all over the world. My particular favorites were the black and white Harlequin duck and the recently-widowed Magpie goose, who I gladly would have taken home. “It’s true geese mate for life,” Logan explained. “For the life of their partner, that is. They seek a new mate when their partner dies. But the Magpie goose, being from Australia, only breeds in warmer climates.” 

Unfortunately, a trip to Australia isn’t in the cards for my Magpie goose, nor for Logan who rarely takes a vacation, and in fact lives in a house on conservancy property. But plenty of travel was on the horizon for him, managing a migration via planes, trains, and automobiles for a Whooper swan, a Mandarin duck, and an Andean goose, all headed to new homes around the country. His companions on the return trip would include Ruddy ducks, Superb starlings from Utah, and an intriguingly named Southern screamer from Michigan. Logan also recently returned from presenting a talk in front of some of his heroes at the International Wild Waterfowl Association conservation workshop.

It’s hard to overstate either the significance of the work Logan and his team are doing at Ripley or the reputation RWC has earned for its efforts. RWC works with zoos across the country on a Species Survival Plan which coordinates breeding practices for the entire known population of a species. The fact that this work is being done in our back yard to ensure species survival on a large scale is maybe Ripley’s best kept secret, and something Litchfield County residents should be extremely proud of.

When I asked Logan if he sees himself spending his life at Ripley, his response was an emphatic “Yes!” One of his dreams is to seek out kids that might also see a future for themselves at RWC. 

As for me, I see a future for myself with a certain widowed Magpie goose. I’ll have to work on that.

RWC is open for guided tours all winter. Learn more at ripleyconservancy.org.

They weren’t looking to have a design studio. However, a space just appeared out of thin air one day and the next thing they knew they were signing a lease to open on Bank Street in New Milford. 

“It probably helped that the space is less than five minutes from our workshop, between two favorite restaurants, and across the street from the handsome art deco movie theater. In our 13 years of business we have bounced from town to town either outgrowing our space or having to move because our building sold. Our goal over the past year has been to root ourselves to New Milford, the town where we had our first workshop, but we had no plans to hang a shingle in the main shopping area downtown,” shares Stacy Kunstel, co-founder of Dunes & Duchess, a custom lighting and furniture maker.

The design studio is intended to be a beautiful setting  for their clients away from the noise and dust of the workshop. Open by chance and by appointment, it is filled with beds, dining tables, sconces, lamps, and accessories all made in New Milford. “We’ve added favorite artists, vintage items, and pieces that compliment our esthetic, including woven leather bags by Lance Wovens and wool throws woven by women in Tunisia from Scents and Feel. It’s also given us the opportunity to try new things such as our collection of tiny candleholders, wooden cutting boards, and lacquered art pieces.”

Dunes and Duchess will have a grand opening this spring and hope to host events at the new location in the coming year.—Dunesandduchess.com